karen's Travels 2007/8

Over view of trip.

2008-08-23T08:40:00.000-07:00

365traveldays + 1 as it was a leap year!

'How was you trip?' people ask me, 'Life changing!' is my reply.

Ok, here is the break down,

366 day's,

10 counties

South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Australia (Tasmania),

New Zealand, Chile and Argentina.

Distance

Air = 41,396 Miles

Land = 6076 Miles

Sea = 1498 Miles

Rail = 2904 Miles

Walk = 500 miles of course!

Total = 52,375

(that makes an average of 143 miles per day)

I have now seen roughly 20% of the world in my life to date.

One thing I have learnt from travelling and exposure to other cultures is happiness is about the people we meet, the friends we keep and the family who surround us.

Always remember a smile doesn't need translation in any language or culture.

The hardest part................Home!

2008-05-20T06:39:00.000-07:00

Hitting the tarmac at Heathrow I felt a rush of emotion which was indescribable and something I have never felt before. The realisation that the travel chapter was over, the epic life changing journey was taking an other twist and the simple fact of being back where you started from, but being a different person one year on.

Everything zoomed though my head on the final hours of the flight, revisiting the memories from the places I had seen, the faces I had seen smile or weep, the smells and the sounds that I had experienced. Nothing was going to let me re -live those days, nothing was going to take me back to the same situation but the overwhelming joy of knowing you shared it with special and amazing people. Some people I will never meet again and may have shared a simple moment with or they maybe friends for a life time. What ever journey my life takes now I know I will be better because of it and my eyes are wide open for opportunities which may take to places unimaginable.

Being back is the hardest thing to adjust too and I'm not sure where 'home' is for me any more as my heart is scattered all over the world and I ran out of hats!

You may have followed this trip from start to end or your may have just checked in from time to time, whatever I'm just happy to have shared some of the best times of my life with you.

There will be more to come and I can tell you now its not the last time I take on the world, but till the next time I'm just going to sit back and revel in the memories which will never be taken from me, nor the spirit of travel which is in my blood. If I'm sat with you and you see a little twinkle in my eye and the devilish smile on my face, don't worry I'm just in a special place with a special story to go with it. Ill tell you about it all one day but be sure to bring lot's of coffee and at least four cakes:-)

Thank you and be safe

Love Karen x

No crying leaving Argentina...........until I landed in the uk anyway!

2008-05-13T00:17:00.000-07:00

Hi there well i have had some photo's kindly emailed to me from friends I made in B. Aries. As most people know now I'm back home in the UK but don't like to leave any unfinished business.

I spent the last week of my travels 'trying' to learn some Spanish and staying in thins beautiful 'Casa' with an elderly couple called Generaldo and Maria Martez. They where so kind and so helpful and really looked after every student in their house in an individual way. As you can see from the photo's above it is amazing, 75 years old and a traditional house of BA. They had a Parrot, Cats and the oldest most gentle dog in the world who was always asleep! (see pic) I will one day return to South America and do it all but that will take a year in its self. Argentina is massive. Buenous Aries is one of the biggest cities in the world and you get lost everyday, even when sober. It has the highest plastic surgery rate in the world and all the Women are in competition with each other to get the best man. The society is that if you can pull the man or woman you want, than you can have them, this is if you are in a relationship, married or not. I find it quite sad that most thins seemed to be superficial but out of the city people are supposed to be more relaxed and real. So these are the people I want to meet, obviously.

Well until the next time I can afford a trip of a life time it's back to the day job but if you do see me note the extra twinkle in my eye, if I'm not smiling just whisper the word Africa.

Thanks for being there and reading.

Love Karen x

To be continued...........................

2008-04-20T06:55:00.000-07:00

Ok, ill try to explain the best i can but please remeber im very happy and know this is the right thing for me. I have learn´t a lot about myself this year and even more over the passed few weeks. Im burn´t out, over weight, tired, lacking passion for most things and it has taken me a while to realise i need to rest and be at home. Yes i still want to see the world and i still know its beautiful, amazing and all the passed year has been life changing in every area of my life, but somethings you have to reasses and know what you want not what you expect to want or what others expect you to do. Im stronger now and the memories and friends i have made as priceless, and for everything elce there is NO master card and my handbag with phone, camera, money, cards etc got stollen on my birthday. Now you may think this is the reason i feel like this but is isn´t it was just the final thing to make me realise what i want. Its just stuff im, happy,safe and well. Im not rounding off my trip on a low im rounding it off to recharge and go again in the right frame of mind and seeing everyhting i want to, too enjoy it and the best means possible.
Think this explains but i want to round off my trip with a few photo´s and total mile etc when i get home, but until then in the famous words of the Rolling Stones,

`you carn´t always get what you want, but when you try sometimes, you just might find you get what you NEED!´

Chow x

Argentina is CRAZY, BUSY, MADNESS!!

2008-04-14T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hi there everyone,

Im in BA in Argentina and its MAD and I mean MAD!!
Im living with Hellerreyer family, an old couple in ther 70´s but in a beautiful house with a room to myself. You don´t realise how much of a treat that is for me, but if you have travelled for any period of time you will know what im talking about.
PHONE 005411 4772 6384 speak slow when the people pick up as their english is limited, but the message will get through. Leave a mesage if im not in and ill get back to you.

Ill write more when i have more to tell but for now i have finished my first day of Spannish school and my head is spinning. I think it makes sence!

Im living in an area called Palermo, 20mins on the tube out of downtown. Its up market, but safe and little less busy than the other areas so I feel I can cope with it better than the pickle of people in downtown. However the night life here and things to do are plentiful and BA operates at night, things only start at midnight! The next three weeks are costing me a fortune but think it will be worth it for the experience and education im getting.

Miss you all and if it makes you smile it´s cold.

Chow Karen x

Torres and the Navimag

2008-04-08T12:10:00.000-07:00

Sounds like an epic doesn´t it, well it was folks, well it was............

Porto Natales is a very small place and I stayed in a hostel called Erratic Rock, loads of travellers, serious walkers and climbers. I felt a little out of my depth with some of the people as there seemed to know what they were doing, but many many ´good eggs´there and 2 people from within 5 miles of Glossop, of all the places in the world!!!! come on! Martin (Ashton) was biking his way around Chile, which in its self is amazing not to metion he was a great guy and good to hear some northern humor again. Also me Hatty, Mark and an Irish girl whom im sat with in the meal photo. We all had a good night in the fantastic pizza place, which hit the hunger just right.

Torres De Panne, is Chile´s most famous national park and I hit it the week it went off season so still good weather but you can never predict that in this part on the world it changes by the hour and less tourists. (winner) The view in the top picture was one of the most breath taking view I have ever seen and on a great day. What you can not see in the picture is the Larma´s that are scattered around the edge of the road and the nothingness which follows. I landed in the airport which is made up of 2 buliding a little better than a shed (so i loved it!) in the middle of feilds. Arrived at the hostal and chatted to loads of nice poeple, ate with 2 older coulpes from the uk. Anyway, blar, blar........................ i listerned to the 3 o clock talk which is about the National park and the routes you can go around. The ´W´or the ´C´ for example which yeah man, hard core etc etc. I just wanted to enjoy and carring a back pack with everything you need to live for 4 days seem to much for me but if i could have shared the load i would have done. Anyway i loaded up with food and everything bar a tent as opted for the Refugios to sleep in but cooked outside with camping stove. (it is a lot better in Africa when your in the heat, i now remeber i dont miss the cold dam uk weather) I walked with my backpack with a weight of 8kg and not to mention the assests of a sturdy girl which im sure would make the treck a little more difficult for two days. Stopping for romantic moments together as in the second pic. .....................isn´t it beautiful people, the most romance i have had in ages. Walking alone i saw so much wild life and really enjoyed that but little sad i didin´t see a Puma but the Black widow spider made up for it, pretty cool. Came out the park a day early as the weather closed in and there was no point in treking for a sun rise where the sun don´t shine...right? I really enjoyed what i did and glad i did it at my own pace.
Chilled and then got ready for the Navimag ferry. This is a 4 days 4 night trip and takes you through the Patagonian channels but 12 hour on the open Pacific ocean. The dull days continued but there were breifings and film to keep you entertained. The people on board where ecletic and really opened your mind you to the different views and opinions in the world. Shared a cabin with 3 people, which was a tight squeeze but we mannaged. The night on the ocean was rough and on the roughness scale they use at sea it was a 7 out of 12, and to lie down was the only was to feel ok. Vomiting was spreading around the ship like some sort of new fashion craze in London. A night for us all to remenber but im still swaying 36 hour after setting foot on land again, and not feeling to good for it.
After the Navimag i didn´t really have a clue what to do but i knew i had to be in Santiargo on the 10 to fly to BA. So Gareth (welsh) and Neil (south African) said they wre heading to Pucon to climb a active volcano so i thought i would go there, which is where i am now and getting the over night bus to Santiago tomorrow. Think going to hot spring tonight, maybe but right now i just want to stop feeling dizzy, i know im blonde but really the room is rocking.

Hope you enjoyed this little story, how are you? what´s your story?

xx

As near to the south pole as im going to get!

2008-03-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

Hola!

Sat in a very warm internet cafe in Puerto Natales, Patagonia, Chile and looking at the splats of rain at the window, which is a slightly alien experience for me at the moment.

Where are you? Hope your happy? tell you what go out and do something different or try one thing you have never had before and it could just be the thing to start something new. Sorry still me, waffle, waffle.........................

Anyway...

I flew down from Santiargo yesterday which was like a bus sevice, i´ve never took off and landed so many times with out actually being in the place you want to be. Call me an altitude junky as think that´s what im going to be for a while.

Have got a ´good´ plan i think for South America now, which ill stick too as hate the limb feeling and like to be productive. Wont tell you it all now but will tell about the past wek a little more and the next few days ill be treking, camping and taking in Torres Del Paine, one of the most amazing national parks in Chile. Maybe a bit challenging for me and it´s alittle on the expensive side but thinkill only be here once. Don´t worry Mum im getting kitted out with all the out door stuff i need from the hostal called, Erratic Rock, they know all there is to know about it. After that on Thursday i catch a ferry up the Patagonia Channels up tp Puerto Montt, which weather permitting should be fantastic, not to mention a good way to rest afer 4 days of trecking.

As you may have read i had a good start to Chile and the first photo is Stu and i, on the local drink of Pisco Sour, very very dangerous, shout come with a hazzardous substance lable i think, but they do go down well! National Musuem of Santiago, randome building which was a church. There are many of them as 90% of the nation is catholic, all with acutecture to google at for a good while. Next was a very random FREE night out in Santiargo i went with a lady called Esther from my Hostal, ended up in a salsa club with lots of locals,so i had a blast. The dancing (one of my most passonate of passions) was beautiful and the way they move is so so smooth you can not imagine. The last photo is one of me at a Vineyard..................um yas a common theme, butit was a great day and learn´t a little more about the wine list. Im getting quite a pro at tasting but the cheaper end of the scale i still like best............always said i was a cheap date, te he he!

So that´s it really going to get all my food supplies and other bits sorted today from this small town. Little nervous about the treck but im sure ill be fine, people keep telling me i servived Africa for 6 months i can do anything...............maybe, but im just me no pro or anything.

Are finally some good music in the internet place, it was really getting to me..........oh, talking to myself again............ummm............umumummmmm.........

zzzz zzzz zzzz day dream.

Chow x

Last Chapter, South America!

2008-03-26T11:58:00.000-07:00

Hey there eveyone,

Just a quick note to say i have arrived safe and well in Santiago, Chile and already this is my kind of place and reason for travelling. I'm Very excited and for those of you who know me well, ive got that adventurous look in my eye again.

So far it has started off better than i could really hope for and had a great two days looking around the sites with Stu whom i met on the plane, from Leeds. I like the feel of the place, the smell, the European feel and the re born sence of mystery it brings.

Don't worry ill put pic's and all that on soon when i have more but today i need to plan, buy a phone card and be productive.

Till then be good, if not be safe.

Love Karen

Last few pic's to go with blog below!

2008-03-21T17:09:00.000-07:00

Rounding up NZ ready for the last chapter.

2008-03-21T16:33:00.000-07:00

Hey guy's

Well this is the last time ill be posting on this from NZ and i know i wont be over this side of the world again in a long time.

Quite a lot has happened since the last time of writing and as every traveller knows every day is an adventure. Back in Wellington i met up with Jenny Whom i met at the Maori night and we watched the cricket Eng V Black caps which was really good fun and the whole place was taken over by the Barmy Army. They all travelled round in red double Decker buses hence the photo of me next to it. That night was a big night out with Jenny and Sarah (whom i was staying with in Well) dancing on tables the lot but it was girls having fun...........brilliant! Went around and saw some the last bits of Well i had not seen (like the famous boat shed in the pic and i like them as they add colour and retro to the beach front) and chilled with Sarah. Saw Dragon boat racing in the harbour, the school competition which is a great way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon.

I have to say a massive THANK YOU to Sarah for putting me up and letting my brain settle, i.e not in hostels, sick of them now! My last night in Wellington was St Patricks day and in true fashion it was a blast, jigging, face paint, drinking, smiling, music and lots of drunk Men, mostly about 45! Pic of Irish (aka Sarah and here friends from the Irish club which seem to be every where in the world! (john and Mr California....private joke) Also THANK YOU to Natasha whom I'm staying with now just on a beautiful island 30min's off the coast of Auckland. (sky line pic)

It is breath taking the view from the house Natasha lives in, you can see Auck in the distance, Winery's, beaches and not to mention boats all over the place. Very relaxing. Walked to Cable Bay winery where she works and it high class and fine dinning but gorgeous! It Natasha's birthday today so she off with the Boyfriend which gives me time to sort lots of things out ready for the next bit of my travels. Yesterday we spent most of the time on the beach and then went to the best Cinema i have ever been to. Sofa's filled a room with the big screen and you could get really comfortable just like at home. It was just my sort of thing.

There will be a few more picture on the top of the views, Natasha and i also one form the cricket with Jenny and the Girls on the night out having fun.

Funny never thought i would say this but getting ready for being a home for a while and being in one place, there is a MASSIVE difference in being a traveller and working abroad. Not jumping the gun too much however, looking forward to the next bit and I'm going to Spanish school in Argentina! WOW! Also going to dance the Tango so hard i look like Elle McPherson's, when i get home;-)

Any empty space in you calender in June and Aug remember to leave a bit for me to catch up with you over a brew.

Anyway till the next time, miss you all love Karen xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Mullets and the egg smell!

2008-03-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

HI there, um I'm hungry as not had breakfast yet and been on a bus for past 2 hour with a driver who had the mullet of all mullets and it was a Woman!!

I'm on my way back to Wellington to meet my friend Sarah from Ireland, for Rugby and Paddy's day, also to hook up with another girl to watch England play cricket (if the tickets are cheap though!!) So not really busy seeing beautiful views as above for the next few days but i need to be with people which i know. Been feeling like a year is a long time and it is hard to keep going but its all worth it. If i just think how long it took me to save then i get the kick up the back side i need to keep me going. Very excited about South America and leave NZ on the 24th March!

Sorry Sarah L i could resist when the house trekking was so cheap and along this beautiful beach, i even cantered, you would be proud! I did this yesterday and the lady with me i have met a couple of times on the way round Fiona from Scotland living in the Lakes in the UK. She's cool and we had a great laugh. It was also one of my best days in NZ as the temp was just right at 4.30pm the tide was out and calm. The grass was so lush the houses, Bessy and Molly where a warm Chestnut (my fav) and it was perfect!

In Rotorua i wen to a Maori Hangi and then did traditional dancing, music, poi poi, Hacker and taught us about the culture of old and new. They also came down the river in traditional boats then showing the tattoos and explaining the meaning of them. However touristic it was it was also interesting and i did enjoy it. The top two picture are from there and the food on the Hangi was beautiful!

The Church you see in the next picture is one of the oldest things you will see in NZ and it was fascinating with all Maori carvings inside and out. You realise how to appreciate the UK for its history when you see country's with out. The next pic is one of the many beautiful views around Turanga too many to capture on film and its never the same anyway.

Not too much to report except i have decided that live, love and relationships are simple when compared to egg's. Generally the people who are reading this are good egg's.

Think time in NZ will go quick now so just going to enjoy, looking forward to the challenge of learning Spanish and I'm going to try and keep it up when i get home as it has been something i have always found hard but wanted to achieve in my life.

Happy Paddy's day to all and miss everyone, big hugs, Karen x

Yippie photo's for previous blog 4th March

2008-03-05T20:33:00.000-08:00

A small example of Art Deco building in Napier, Howard you have to go there and visit the Vine yards too.

The Huka falls after the dam has been opened and the water full flowing.

Photo's from the 6.5 hour Tramp that i did, and proud of it!
Emerald lakes and view from the top which remind me of Scotland, soooooo much.

Moving slow!

2008-03-04T15:16:00.000-08:00

Hey there guy's, sorry no pictures as can not find my USB cable so got to wait till i get to a big city to buy a new one as my connection is not standard, typical!

Any way in Taupo at the mo and been through the Art Deco town of Napier, which had a Tom Jones concert on while i was there in the Vineyards! Can you ever really get away? I Really liked Napier and it has a real sense of community and pride as a city.
I did a 8 hour Tramp aka hike yesterday so having an easy day right now. It is supposed to be one of the best day walks in the world, taking you up Devil stair case, across a crater of a volcano, see the emerald lakes, then through barren hill mountain side to finish up with lush green ferns and the feel of a rain forest. It was an achievement as even the nice couple from Holland who Tramp all over the place said it was hard and gave me some Tramping tips. Now on a nice day with little wind and sun shining, or a nice snow capped winters day i can see why i t would be one on the best walks in the world. However with a Easterly wind blowing a gale and burning hand due to the chill factor and low cloud which only cleared for a few brief spells, it wasn't the most enjoyable thing i have ever done. Maybe the irony of Bob Dylan's Hurricane being the last song i heard before getting to bed that night was something to do with it?! Having said all this, being a plodder and not really used to this kind of thing, i am happy i did it and feel i pushed myself in NZ.

Anyway ill explain more when i have pictures.

Hope you are all well?

Windy Wellington

2008-02-27T18:24:00.001-08:00

Well you know what? Wellington ain't half bad!

Take a look at the top picture to appreciate the view from the Botanical Gardens in the city, which was one of the funniest days i have had as was with my partner in crime and not stop giggle friend Karl, who's and land owner don't you know!!

Bring back the Gladiators!! Rabbit, Speed skater, Quiche, Gorper, Majesta and the Ferret (private joke for the Dunedin clan!)

Spent about a week there and saw the city Museum, water front, free concert, art festival was on so lot to entertain, saw Parliament, which was well Parliament,(2nd photo)watched the Wellington Hurricanes, (3rd photo super 14 rugby match) and left the city with a good feeling that i could have spent more time there. Also leaving a few 'good egg's' which i travelled with for a month or so. (4th Photo, Speed skater and Rabbit) If you have been following my story then you will know who they are.

So i get the cheapest bus i can find called the Naked bus and travel about 2 hours to Palmerston North, which is the first place Rugby was introduced to NZ and also the largest land locked city in NZ! SO off i went to the National Rugby museum as you can see in the last photo, was maybe not what you would expect from a country that has a whole TV channel dedicated to the game! A humble building and in 2 small rooms, next to the stadium, packed with all sorts of thing and bringing the memories of 2003 back to me. I was in Sydney for those who didn't know! Yes one of the best feeling in the world! Also got up at 530AM the other morning to watch the 6 nations matches, Ireland and then the England game, funny as it had been a lock-in at the Welsh pub in town so many tired but jolly soles left in there. Good laugh and a sense of achievement getting up and beating the French!

Anyone at hope who is not on facebook, i woke the other morning to a strange feeling and i got small flash of homesickness for the first time, which to be honest took me by surprise. However i have put this down to NZ being like the UK and reminding me of the world i left behind. Mainly my mates who i enjoy coffee with or chatter or someone who understands with out explanation! Anyway I'm over that now but messages from home help, so if you get chance please do. Well moving on again tomorrow to Napier.

Big hug

Karen

From Whales to Wellington

2008-02-19T18:13:00.000-08:00

Im sat in a stuffy hot internet cafe in Wellington, feeling like this is the same as every other city in the western world and trying to understand the inportance of fashion!!?? People are like sheep!

Anyway only been here less that 2 hour so im may grow on me, ill give it a chance.

Left Picton which was a really nice place, which i was debating satying in for a while and took the Ferry to the north island. A little sence of new beginings and loss leaving the beautiful south but it was time. Still with Hannah , Karl and Sarah but all going our separate ways ina day or so Jeron has stayed in Kikura, where we whatched the Male Sperm Whales and Hetor Dolphins. It was a expensive but grat experience and glad i did it.

Top photo is of a rather strang night in Picton in a place called the Barn. We walked in there and there was a large table of people aged 70+. We were eating dessert (Wendy, Karl, Jeron, Hannah, Sarah and me) and the next minute one of the old boy's was up playing the piano with eveyone singing and dancing around. Next finding out Sarah was Irish and getting her to join in with songs she ldidn't know. It was Madjic and brilliant entertainment for the night. The next picture down in the breath taking view from the beach in Kikura. I sat there for a while and gathered my thoughts as needed a bit of me time. Next photo one of the many pics of the Whales diving down after breathing on the surface for 15mins or so. They then can stay under for up to 2 hours!!

The next piture is only on here for one reason, and Dad this is the differnce between the Ozzies and Kiwi's. Look and read second line. (click on pic to enlarge)

Last pic Karl, Sarah and me on a walk looking out over panaramic views of Picton, met random Dutch guy on the walk too.

Backpacker places have been good and Juggles Rest in Picton is like a home from home. Many of the out of town hostels are brilliant and people you meet evey day are easy going.

As for me and how im feeling, well coming out of a little dip which is one of those Karenish things but positive. Would like to be involved with some kind of project in South America so may look into that soon as feel i need a focus and i now know im one of those people who need to focus and achieve even if its a little thing.

Well Wellington , its time to impress me, the sun is out, let explore!

South Island round trip!

2008-02-14T16:55:00.000-08:00

HI there it me again, well who elce? Im on an ice cube!

Hope your ready for the next bit of babble from me , but its good to verbal jazz as its theropy for me.

Hope you all doing well and thatnk for all the flood's of love coming in on Feb 14th!!!!!! :-)

Since Wanaka we have moved quite quick and done some cool stuff.

We got our wooly hats, Gortex jacket and put on our Clampers ready to climbe Franz Joseph Glazier, which was the most beautiful ice cube i have ever walked on.(see Sarah and Me on bus 4th Photo & 3rd) This is despite the fog, low rain cloud and getting soked down to my Granny knikers We had a great day and Karl who we shared a room with in Dunedin also was on our tour. The day didn't clear but we really did enjoy the 8 hour day, but still trying to dry out 4 day's after! smells great!

Then we chilled in Greymouth as the weather was still poor but the place was great and the town small and friendly. Moving swiftly onto Nelson where we past through, it's a town with all the normaties. Moved up to Abel Tasmin National park and Kayaked around with Jeron to Appel split rock and around the caves and bay which was great as you all know i have a strong passion to be on the water. (1st photo)Last night i spent the night in a Tepe which i was rather chuffed with as it reminded me of Africa and where my heart still is. The place was a little hippyish and everyone seemed heavily into yoga and meditation. The others who were there seemed to all be at the same place as us last night, which was..................................the local public house! Chatted to some more good egg's from the uk, France, and headed back to the Tepe.

So the last full day as the four of us will split tomorrow as the car is over, but it has saved me a samll fortune doing it this was and the adventure is set to change once more.

2008-02-07T21:47:00.000-08:00

HI there eveyone just thought i would keep you all posted on my movements, in a warm fuzzy mood as just had a really good shower................ummmm

Any way here goes since last posting in Dunedin we have moved south around the Catlins coast which was a MUST DO in NZ.(waterfall pic) To Invacargill (spelling wrond but i know where i mean) at the south os South NZ poeple tend to say it a passing thought place which it is in many way's but it has lots of good bit to it too! Met one of my friends which i made on the Banks Pen (dresses night out) as Natasha had just come of boat from Stewart island and was in town. We had such a good giggle and feel like i have known her for a long time already. Also sorted out her love like and think there maybe wedding bell's kiwi style if all goes to plan. (see photo of 2 big grims and a cheeky glass of red)

From there moved up to Tu Anue(see last pic) on the edge of a lake near Milford sounds. It was a brilliand setting and real laid back. We sat on the shore line catting one night with nibbles, really one of these night you really get to know your travel pal's.........and there all good egg's!

Milford sound was grand and not taken to peices by touristum. Sarah, Hannah and i went on the boat around the sound but i really enjoyed the drive up through the mountains the best. NZ is all naturally beautiful and some will remind you of home, which for me maybe a bit too much as still craving cultural divercity. However it is amazing and worth the trip. (picture 7th one down)

Then we stuffed our bags in to every orophise of the Nissan Sunny and set off again with destination Queenstown. The place where you throw youyrself of anything, however you want! We did non of it but chilled as it is a fantastic setting for the (small) city and had the buzz about it. You know the buzz that could get you in trouble in to many way to imagine. It is good and quite a lot to do there. Jerone, Sarah, Hanah and me on photo 8.

Met a few good people there too some Canadians, German and sweadish., which im hopefully going to crash with in Auckland.

Now we are in Wanaka, one of the best places to be for season, you can swim in the lake in summer, water ski the works and have the fun in the snow in winter. Expensive to live here but well worth it. We all like it so much we stayed 3 day's!! Top 3 pictures. Also top picture was Sarah's birthday and we made her a nut roast as a massive treat for a vegan as you canrn't even get her a cake!! rubbish! We are all getting on really well and Jerone and me went fishing to day (4th pic) which was fun but didn't catch any trout for dinner so going to the shop now.

Bye x

Not quite NZ with out...........................sheep farm's!

2008-01-29T20:06:00.001-08:00

HI there and yes I'm still here travelling away and loving every minute of it, even if i have had a few lonely moments over the past week or so. For you people who know me really, really well you know this can be bad for my mental state, you know what i mean!

Well anyway arrived Christchurch NZ (South Island) had a few crazy, fun filled backpacker type night as you do to make new friends. It is however a really nice city, small, friendly and local of nice architecture etc. Really enjoyed the few days i had there and then headed to my first Wwoofing place out on the Banks Pen, beautiful area. There were 6 of us Wwoofer's and a great way to start the experience off as we all got on well and Phil, a really great Irish guy i met in Christchurch also came along with me. We had a ball and didn't stop laughing for the 5 days we were there. This was topped off by a visit to the local pub in Little River with the girls in best frocks we had and the boy in Skirts and bandannas!! May not sound like a big deal but we are talking country here folks, deep country with people who are sheep farm's for generation and have not see a women cleavage since the late 1980's, so imaging the looks as we all walked in!! Priceless..........................and for everything Else.................................!!! yes anyway!
Moved then sound with Natasha from the Banks Pen through Timaru and Omaru and was picked up there by next Wwoofer host Maurice. This is where i spent a week on a n Organic farm helping out as much as i could . Its bloody hard work this farming lark you know especially organic so it really is worth buy it for that little extra. The meat from there goes to Tesco of all places. Learnt a lot, drove a tractor (big red one!), separated sheep for ewe's, lambs, slaughter, put up an eclectic fence, fix a lawn mower and mowed all the lawn on a sit on, fixed the irrigation system, moved cattle, cooked, weeded, turn out taties and had lot of time to myself and few lonely hour but bounced back from that, however that is how travelling goes my friends!

Now in Dunedin and it a nice small city with a big uni. Met two girls in my hostel Sarah and Hannah who have today asked me if i wont to travel with them and share the car heir etc, which is exactly what i was looking for and we win all ways! I'm sure the adventure will pick up now.
Been out on the Peninsula from Dunedin , gorgeous and walked up the steepest street in thew world, going out for a red wine tonight as deserve it after all that work on the farm.

Hope your are all well back home and i really do miss you all at the moment. You realise how fantastic mate are when you travel, look forward to having a wine with you when home.

Photo's are a bit muddles but goes from the top!

1 Sheep separation, Marice in pic
2 Lucy and Thronton, Marice's children and there play house
3 Hannah, Me and Sarah my new travel buddies for the next week or so
4 Me on the steepest street in the world.
5 Dunedin Train station, amazing inside all tiled.
6 The Cathedral in Christchurch
7 Elliot (the big Scottish man at 19!), Phil the Irish and me .
8 Ankora on Bank Peninsula .....wow
9 Ladies night in Little river!
10 Down on the farm!

That all for now folk's!

Arrived Safe in NZ

2008-01-16T15:10:00.000-08:00

NEW MOBILE IS +64211363150

Oz over and out!

2008-01-13T15:04:00.000-08:00

Hey, there fellows from afar or maybe not so far, well who ever you are, glad your reading this blog and keeping up with my travels, where ever they are!

Ok, hi.

Wow Oz is over as i leave on Wed (16th Jan) to Christchurch, NZ, sounds amazing doesn't it? is it cold there in UK? was 35 C yesterday at the 2020 beach cricket. It was great and there is a picture of the streaker being escorted off by security, he will pay a $1500 fine and one night in the cell's for that, but it was funny and not quite Ozzie sport without one. Check out he backdrop to the photo, the surf was great and all the buff's were out there cruzin' on their boards, ripping it up!

Let explain photo's.Top to bottom.

1. Letting party poppers off on NYE, all family and few friends.

2. My bed on NYE was in rubber boat as limited space. (only had 3 hour in it though)

3. Beach Cricket

4. My folks with Aunt and Uncles

5. A token pic for you guy's of my second home.

6. Our own beach cricket, Mum, Dad and Wez.................

7. Cuz Sara and me on the boat.

8. Australians obsession with 'BIG' things- example the BIG (turd) potato! it is true!

9. Mum, Dad and me after i went out for a paddle on sea ski.........i luv it!

10. Bazza and Kazza the killer team in Lawn bowl's.

Well been very busy since NYE and been sorting out NZ going Wwoofing (google Wwoof) round hopefully so will get the full kiwi experience. I'm not bothered about the full on backpacker things like throwing yourself off a bridge tied with a bit of elastic or being told to climb this mountain as it was in some fantasy film, which I've not Even seen anyway......................i want the REAL people in the REAL places and the little bit's of heaven which the tourist and backpackers don't see. Off the road places where the post person still knows your name and everyone in town will make you brew because they know your a visitor, even if they carn't understand your accent.

GET IT?....good.

Been doing many things since NYE and here is a list on some of them, Surfing, Paddling, Boogie boarding, Snorkeling, avoiding shopping, playing Golf, Cricket (playing and watching), Emailing, Talking, Partying, Boating, Water skiing, Tubing, watching wild Dolphins, Possums, Roo's, Bat's, many Birds, Sting Ray's, Fish, Child minding, Cooking, exploring new suburbs of the City, eating too much and little bit of chilling. Oh hard life............but now serious budgeting!

Still think about Africa every day and i been trying to contact everyone personally before i leave Oz, sorry if didn't get round to you, but i will one day and some how.

Don't really know what the furture hold for me in NZ as only have the first 10days sorted, but that just makes it more exciting.

Sticking to my resolution's so far and im pleased.

Got lots to do and need to pack a bag....again!

Only 4 and half months till back, how quick has that gone?

Take care and plases keep in contactits alway nice to read something from an old mate or someone you know.

Chow, Tu nana.

Karen xx

2008 Begin's

2008-01-02T04:49:00.002-08:00

Happy New Year and let the next chapter of our lives unfold together in these crazy times.

To everyone at home i miss you and ill see you in June (maybe;-)

To everyone who I've met along the way, hope to see you soon and create lasting travel memories in 2008

To the people who ill meet this year and the thing's i'll experience................BRING IT ON!!!!!!!

TAStastic, Tasmania!!

2007-12-21T19:01:00.000-08:00

Wow, Tasmania is a very beautiful part of Australia and i think one of the most chilled out places to go to avoid the Christmas hype, which is my way of doing things. I don't miss the shop's, i really don't miss the Christmas music, but i do like to party in a pool! (hence the photo, Merry Christmas, pool side!)

Since i arrived in Sydney a week early i gave the folk and i the chance to catch up as a family, so we three (king's, please sing if your that festive) thought it would be nice to go on a road trip. We have seen so much of the East coast of Oz over the years, i suggested we should get cheap flight and see Tasi. We did and it was amazing. We drove from beaches, to national parks and met all sorts of local folk along the way. Dad also got to watch some cricket (Oz V's NZ) in Hobart, one of the few grounds he's not been to so a bonus for him. Mother got the usual um teen autograph's on a mini cricket bat.

Launceston, which is the second biggest city in Tasi was my fav, prob as big as Buxton town centre, much much nicer in every way. There was also one of the 'BEST IN THE WORLD' things there, as you can see my Dad on the photo. (ozzie's are the best in the world at selling Australia as 'THE BEST IN THE WORLD!') and hear is a prime example, but you have to like um for it!

The beaches were white and the sea was an electric blue and where around every corner. You were lucky if you even saw anyone else on them, Perfect!

If your looking for history then take the 'Wise Men' (festive) down to Port Arthur (per landscape photo of Prison, which was a Flour Mill prior to that) as it is where the worst convict were taken and a whole community was built in and around that area. Ozzie's may know it for a different reason but we're not looking in to the dark side for once, as that kind of thing is the reason I'm away from my day job. (sorry for those who don't know what I'm talking about)

Tasmanian Devils are in risk of becoming extinct as they are contracting a rare form of cancer in their mouth's stopping them eating. This is linked to products which the farmers use on their crops so didn't see any, sorry folks, but spare a thought for the little Devils over the Christmas period, poor things.

Any how hope you all got, my cards, emails, sms, presents or physic thoughts of Happiness and cheer for the Christmas and New Year. Ill look forward to the future with you in it.............

Take care and be safe, Love Karen x

Indian to the Pacific.... via Aderlaide

2007-12-16T00:51:00.000-08:00

Hey there

people around the world, hope your well and not too stressed coming into the crazy times of Christmas?!

Well after my 'nice' times in Perth i took the Indian Pacific railway and travelled 4,352km about 65 hours to Sydney, along the longest straight stretch of railway track in the world!! (check that out!) The train took me from west to east, through the bush and stopping once per day in random bush towns and Adelaide. I took a brief tour around the city and visited the Oval cricket ground mainly for my Dad and i beat him to that one!;-) It was small and compact and very Australian. Now this may not mean a lot to you but to me the lack of culture in Oz is really painful.

Anyway i arrived a week early and was met at the stating by Lindz, who took me to a family party where i walked in to everyone surprise!! Tears flowed and then the wine was swallowed, but it was good to be with them. Since then been chilling and catching up with my ever increasing family network.

Oh Photo's Claudia and Me on train, she was my travel bud on there and we had a laugh. She crazy and from Germany.

Me still in African clothes with the Indian Pacific train.

Half my family in Oz the Lawson mob, on day of surprise.

Scenery from train.

Off to Tasmania tomorrow so ill see you soon xx

Perth.....................just too perfect! NEW PHONE NUMBER +61405578498

2007-12-03T20:07:00.000-08:00

G'day guys. How's it going?

Arrived in Perth in WA and it was a culture shock to say the least!

First day sorted self out after the trip from Jo'berg and KO for about 14 hours!

Since then been busy, walking around the city, which is not that big to be honest. Been to the W.A.C.A for you Dad, Kings Park which the back drop of the city, nice. Met a couple Helen & Gavin and joined them to wave rock about a 750k round trip, nice.(photo)Took the trip to Rottnest island with Tracy a Welsh girl i met in my room at the hostel (photo), sat on a beach on my own and snorkeled, nice. Was going Kayaking but cancelled as windy. Been on a few night's out with Tracey to a 50's bar, which i liked and few other places, nice.

And that just it, Perth is 'NICE' it's clean, safe,good weather, well organised, good transport, easy to walk round, little nightlife, well Policed, can get anything you want with ease.................but that's the problem!! I can't find the soul of the city, you know the grit the vibe the way the heart beat of a city sets the tone. There is non and even the people i have met who live in Perth say the same, its too ............PERFECT! like the Truman Show almost.

Yes and i miss Africa as it is everything Perth isn't. Its dusty, dirty, unorganized and oozes culture where as Australia merely tries at it!

Anyway ill let you know how things develop.

OSODANDAULA!!! (NO WORRIES)

2007-11-27T04:10:00.000-08:00

Missed connecting flight to Perth, would have been 24 hours in Jo'Berg airport if not for some more AMAZING african hospitality!!!

Now back at the airport...............................................waiting and waiting for the flight tonight!

Some times travelling is like this, it can be hard, it can be stressful, don't let me fool you!!

But im not flapping, crying, stressing or anything as........OSODANDAULA!!!!!

Malawi Maddness!!

2007-11-21T23:27:00.000-08:00

Some photo's relate to previous blog and the rest to the stories to follow..............

1. Phil, Jess and Nicky in the pick up

2. SUPER SEXY 6 at the nature sanctuary in Lilongwe

3. Simon, me, Jess and Phil at Cape McClear

4. me waterfall behind and mountains

5. We shal go to the ball!

6, 7,8, 9 relate to previous blog entry

10, at Snakebite party!

From the humble start and get used to the hospital, Bari with some SA people, Lake of stars festival, watching Rugby (still 2nd in the world!) a week on the MV Ilala cruzin around the Lake, going to Lilongwe which turned into the start of an amazing time,snakebite and skinny dip! via Cape McClear to then ending up seeing Mount Malijie, picnic and sitting in a water fall, then staying at a coffee plantation ending up going to a Dinner dance and making it back on public transport not smelling too much of raw fish..........i have to say i have had an amazing time and truly truly fallen for Africa hard and at least it is reliable it will always be there and in it's beauty.

Guy's where do i even start trying to tell you about Our trip to Lilongwe............. grab a brew!

On the way broke down......smoke and everything.....TIA

Arrived and walked around the city for the day Lucas, Jess, Laura, G, Nicky and me making the 'SUPER SEXY 6" (In a sexual way - volunteer joke they know what i mean)

We all get on well and went for a meal at a place call Buchannon's (for you John) it was beautiful and not chicken and rice like our daily diet! After we wondered over to a bar but we were all really tired as been up at 4am. However before we left and not spoken more than 2 sentences to other people we had been invited to a Snakebite party the following day and it was just down the round from the British Embassy! WINNER!!

Following day went to the Nature Reserve in Lilongwe, which was quite interesting and the guide told us lots of natural facts! Laura, G and Lucas only wanted to stay one night so left after lunch. We had heard nothing about the Snakebite party and they said they would call. Felling a little low about it we headed back to the hostel, where a message had been left for us and we called the number........a 3rd of a sandwich, change and 45 mins later we arrived at the party!!! Just what we needed drinks, pool table, skinny dips, showers, good times. Jess KO and vomited, Nicky got in to drunken debates and i ate bread rolls in the kitchen for about an hour!! (why do i love food so so much- sturdy girl)

Next day we had been invited by the guy to watch cricket, which we did and the party started again with penalties being drunk and all us girls had to down them for certain reasons from the previous night!!!:-) Then one of the guy's (Simon) said he was going to Monkey bay, so we arrange that we could grab a lift, not to mention he was intriguing to me. That night again ended in a party Jess Casino, Nicky watching DVD's and i was playing darts with Si.

Next morning all with a fuzzy head, loaded up in the back of a 2 seater pick up and set off to Monkey Bay, via the mountains which were beautiful, plus i was left to navigate.....um for those who know me well!!

Dropped off and said our byes to Simon and Phil. Or so we thought.......... later that night got sms and they invited us to Cape McClear for afternoon. (kinda hoped they would;-) so Jess and i to

ok them up on the offer, chilled, swam in the lake (i miss swimming now, going on a misson in oz to swim, surf and dance to get fit) and had fresh fish cooked on the beach round a fire. I have to say i like the style and its cheap too!! then chilled on beach, ended up crashing with Phil and Si the next day they had sorted out Kayaking out to one o the islands, it was beautiful and even though i had been there before, being on the water paddling yourself is the only way to do it. And guy's you know me, im at home on the water. We stopped on the island and snorkeled for a while seeing all the bright colours of the fish and some of which are only in Lake Malawi. Jess and Phil were funny and seemed to ramdonly wiggle around in their Kayak. Back quick lunch and dropped us off in Mangochi (our weekly trip out) to meet up with the others.

Not too much happened then for a day, i packed another bag and set off with G and Lucas to Blantyre. Took 6 hours 3 matolas which is rapid transport in Malawi so don't knock it! ate and walked around up to the big westernised shopping mall. Cake and milk shake. SMS from Si ....can u see me? Oh bloody hell! Ended up Si and Phil where staying at the same place as us and going back our way the following day, so grabbed a lift again! Really good of them and the banter was great even though it involved the 3 guys taking the mick out of me constantly, but you know i can handle that!!

I was dropped at the house on the Coffee plantation, stunning views. The reason i was there was because Riaan who Nicky got on with had invited us the previous week to a Dinner dance. Never turning down an opportunity, we said yes! Hence i was at Beany's house (where Si and Phil had stayed the previous night) as he had the ticket and it was at a country club in Cholo (i think) about 2 hours away. They again made us feel so welcome, fed us steak, OMG i chomped my way though a lot of that, uuuuuuuummmmmmmmmmm STEAK! Drinks were flowing and games followed, Jess and i bed early as needed beauty sleep for the ball.

17th the night of the ball, we had put together outfits from the other volunteers and bit we had and i have to say looked ok! My dress which i was kindly lent of Paula (vol) was not really my style felt like a marshmallow but pulled it off very well! The night was great we were so excited and ate great food, danced until we were the only ones left, doing YMCA on the stage in front of nobody!!

Thank you to all the guy's (basically the SKY BAND CRICKET TEAM) who helped us and treated us so well throughout the past week. It has truly been amazing and we owe it all to you. Stay in touch and really anytime we can help you we will. Bring on Beany's Jacuzzi cocktail party in 08!!

Well time to wrap up but last week has been good at hospital now and my experience has increased my skills and knowledge no end.

Going to club on Friday and than Lilongwe in Sunday, so the SUPER SEXY 6 can enjoy our last dinner together, i will miss them all and they are the people i have spent toe most time with so far. Living with them 24/7 well that when i was at the house.

Hope everyone is well at home and i really do think about you despite the adventures im having. Now get off your bum and live life to the full....................................

Karen XX

A day in Malawi!!

2007-11-07T05:02:00.000-08:00

HI there,

hope all is well at home and i know some people have been trying to call or sms me but reception or network is bad. Really do appreciate you trying though and i luv to receive messages.

Photo from Rugby Final, yes we are noe second in the world. G, Laura, Nicky and me.
on deck with Steve the immagration guy, who we knbow well and chat to weekly, he's funny.
Picture of Nigel and his friend Nick whom i treated. Lastly the MV Ilala it self.

Well ive been busy and busy on a boat for a week. The MV Ilala is the ship which sails all the way round Lake Malawi, stopping off at some major port, islands and places not reachable by road. The senery way beautiful especially in the north. Saw so much of Malawi and the people. AMAZING!! This was all thank to a nice man called Nigel which i have made friends with and been chatting to for the passed few months. He has worked on ships all his life and now lives in Malawi. The crew look after really well and was on the bridge daily with the Master. I did help out with a few minor injures and one major burn.

Hospital is going ok but would like to move on now. Had a few deaths most of those due to Malaria and mainly children. The staff at the hospital are really nice and they are trying to teach me as much as they can about tropical medicen. Which i do like, so thats cool.

Had a bon fire last night, a day late but had to get the wood sorted out. We had dancing round and marsh mellows. It was fun.

Tomorrow is Nickys birthday ao planning a few thing for her, also a big weekend in Lilongwe going to Casino and bar etc, should be good.

Getting busy in Malawi!!!

2007-10-18T03:15:00.001-07:00

Hi there everyone,

My mobile in Malawi is+2659011025 text is cheap!!!

finally got to put some pictures on the blog!!

Photo 1 from LAKE OF STARS FESTIVAL.One of Nikki, Dark hair, from Scotland a Midwife and works at the hospital. We spend a lot of time together and get on really well so it works well. Laura, green t shirt- from London who is going to Cardiff uni to be physio and i share a room with. Lucas who is from California but is half Ozzie.

Photo 2 My bed room bed on right.

Photo 3 Our house on the beach may i add.

Photo 4 Me at Cape Ma clear where we went for the first weekend i was in Malawi and the place we are going to watch ENGLAND IN the Rugby FINAL, this weekend!!

Us four rocked the festival and dance so hard, so many giggles and stayed in tents for the four nights. It was up in Chincechie so only a 6 hour drive, which is nothing in African terms. Lots of people there from UK and it was really strange seeing and being with so many white people not to mention having some sort of atmosphere. We all enjoyed it so much and really wanted it to carry on. Sat on the beach in the day time next to the Radio 1 DJ Annie Mac and co. Also saw the Malawi legend Lucias Bander, who we listen too quite a lot on the way too and from the hospital.

Met some amazing people and one Dutch guy who is cycling around the world!!!

Tom and Chris were from the UK and had a laugh with them. Which leads me to my next week as returned on a Monday and worked at the hospital doing ward rounds, tooth extraction, IV lines, anti natal check and assisting deliveries. (all in a days work you know!!;-)

The guys from the festival had been in touch and on Thursday it was declared a holiday so Tom invited us to the Academy which is near Kasungu. It is a boarding school and Madonna sponsored some children to go there, along with the rich Africans and state funded children. They teach A levels etc. In the end only i went and it was brilliant facilities even for our standards. Swimming pools x2, Tennis courts x5, squashx2, and really up to date books and teaching facilities. Played on the Golf course twice and really enjoyed it, more than i thought. They didn't believe I've only been on the driving range!! I was really cool just to be with lads and i miss that a lot being in a house of 11 women and only 2 lads. Watched ENGLAND in the cricket, football and then the Rugby, which we were all in a daze about. Also learn't how to play poker and think ill be doing that a little more too.

Planning this weekend to go to see Lucias Bander play at a local club. (40min drive) then see ENGLAND on saturday.

Hope evryone ok and ill try and put more photos up soon.

Malawi

2007-09-26T07:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry really pushed for time and only get limited time on the net

All ok and i'm learning lot ta the hospital, wether it mordern or old skills it all good.

Using the time to learn and resurch in to diseases and illnessed im coming accross here. im writing a porfolio of what im doing for when i get home.

Everyone ok on the project but nothing really ledgendary happened so far.
Planning a trip to LAKE OF STARS music festival which has band from all over the world and some from the uk. Check out the web site. Im looking forward to this little road trip and the only thing im spending money on while im here.

I walk on the beach every day and sit out there at night thinking of things. Been writing many songs for some reason, ill let you know when the album is out.:-)

My hair is nearly white and skin olive brown.

Learning the language ok and had some lesson, which is fun, an all round educational experience!

Hope all ok and i really do love it when i get emails and sms, it a great little surprise.

Please let me know whats going on with you guy's

WELL DONE TO ALL PASSING THEIR PARAMEDIC, i was thinking about you all.

Love Karen xx

Now in Malawi

2007-09-04T06:40:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone

im safe and well after my trip and now arrived in Malawi. Hopefully i wont spend too much now as money running low as expected!!

This is RAW africa and not too sure it this computer will take photos but ill have to do that another day when time allows.

I didn't realise but REAL GAP is just a middle made in this project so really annouyed as beeing ripped off by them. Are well!

Been to vistit the clinic/ hospital i am going to be in working at and im sure ill learn more that in any leature in the UK!! Just try and imagine.............. maternity and the rest of it. Will be cool and also be asked if i can be involved with the building of an Orphanage. Learning to be a Bricki really. The people seem nice but just got to settle with them, bit studenty but some in the real world as well! Accomodation is right on the beach and is really cool. Some people thinking of going away this weekend but think i may save the $$$$ as here long time and will travel when Craig and maybe some friends from Cape Town arrive. We will see.

Hope everyone is well at home. I do have a mobile phone number here which my parents have so please feel free to call or SMS.

22 day tour started!!

2007-08-18T05:32:00.000-07:00

Guys

There is always too much to tell and too little time so ill be as short as poss.

I am now i Namibia after travelling up the west coast of South Africa. It is amazing scenery and I'm not at the best bit yet. My tour is with a company called Nomand and is the 22 day from Cape Town to Vic Falls then to Jo'berg. If you really want to look in detail what I'm doing then you can find that on the Internet and full details of the tour are there. I'm looking forward to safari and Vic falls the best.

Pictures of Orange river Canyon, Our touring truck, climbing dune 45, (still got sand in my eye from that 3 days later!) the group at Cape Capricorn and some more sights!! also been padding along a river, which was really relaxing. Saw then most amazing rainbow i have ever seen. Seen bits odd animal but none of THE BIG 5 yet I've got all that to come!! Seen the moon landscape, which used to be the highest mountain range in Namibia but has eroded to almost nothing. Went to a mini canyon and a town with the only purpose of being there is for Apple Pie!! (to be a town you need fuel, some accom, shop and post office, hence the Town only had 2 buildings!!) but it was good pie though! Doesn't beat Grandma's though!

Sleeping in tents nearly every night and we are split into teams, washing up team, cleaning truck team, cooking team and packing team (chairs and tents) so its not really for the pampered!

People on the tour are a mixture and most of the people are Spanish and we have a translator (Paula)with us all the time. An couple who Lindsey (UK) and Bruce (USA) but live in Redding now, Barry from Cardiff (but Irish), Eric (Canadian), another Canadian (via Cezh), Anna (German) 3 people from Korea so a mixed bag. No surprise to me but the people i seem to laugh with the most is the tow South African tour guides (who work for Nomad) Jakie and Dennis the Driver. We laugh and last night partied after a meal in the town of Swakopmond. I was in a dance competition (yes, on the bar) and got in to the final, but the local girl won (even though i rocked harder) but still got free drinks!! hey ho!!

People doing lost of extreme stuff today but i wanted to chill, i have to also spread my money and it is going down a little too quick, should slow in Malawi though as not doing as much and its cheaper!!

Ill keep you posted on other stuff but a do still keep thinking of Cape Town !!!!

Be safe, and where are the COMMENTS GUYS?????????????

Or email's or facebook me, what the gossip from home? or away ??

Bare in mind i have now been at the internet cafe for 3 hours trying to put picture on this. I did it once and lost them so STILL waiting for them to upload!!!!!!! getting mad!! and if they don't work in 5 mins sorry but you will have to wait for the pictures and ill try again next time i acutually get to a computer!

Last Crazy week in Cape Town!!

2007-08-10T04:34:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone

Since watching the sun go down on Lions head lots more people have left and faces have changed.

Went to Kirstenbosh garden which were beautiful and are in the foot hills of table mountain. I met Zoe one of my house mates there as she works there. As you can see from the picture of me on the bench, it was a beautiful day. Picture of Natalia from Travellers (the organization i booked it through) and i in the Gardens. We get in really well and she said I'm "an inspiration" which is so faltering as she herself is amazing and does a great job.

Was invited to a Bari with Tyrone one of the SA friend i have made here. He currently has a broken back but he wanted to have a party for me with him pal's before i leave. The house has its own pool table, bar, Bari area, swim pool and hot tub!! It was so cool and we had such a good laugh. Picture of Tyrone and i.

I had hung out with Tyrone and his family a few times and his parents are so nice. (remind me of my folks a bit) I helped his mum and chatted and then (bless her) she gave me a present before i left. So sweet!

The most Rock and roll thing happened though. Out of the blue i get a text from Claire (who i miss everyday) saying, "we are going to be CT tomorrow, shall we meet for lunch?' I'm like hell yeh and said its a shame your not here tonight at a Bari with friends. Then they said ...........we can be there in 2 hours!!!

2 hours later they are with me at the Bari ........OMG i didn't think i would see them till i was home, it was AMAZING! Becky and Claire stayed for and hour and then went to CT for a good sleep. I met them the next day for lunch and they left for Jo'burg. I was so so so happy and excited to see them and caught up on so many stories!!

Also been out for a meal with Megan, James, Craig and i which was so funny but I'd had a bad bad day but ill have to tell you that later.
Went out on the Ambulance and one of the patent's (Gavin) invited me to a meal at his very nice Italian restaurant. So i booked and took my friends, it was amazing food and we had such a good time Megan and Craig are both SA and James from Yorkshire!! (Megan and James live in the UK - Newcastle) I poured water and ice all over the table, then Megan spilt red wine all over my meal and white skirt. Then James flicked food across the table (by accident) and to finish Craig finishing his Amarula poured it all down himself!! Not to mention we were very drunk and we were the only people left in the place. Gavin treated us so well and halved the bill which we really didn't expect but that the SA for you. SA's are so friendly and if you talk to them you'll make life long friends.

Was also my last day at the hospital so in true Karen style, i bought cake and made cards for all the people who helped me and run the 'Friends of the Children Hospital Association' as these are the people i work under. they were all sad to see me go but all said - 'We know you'll be back'.
They are all aware how much the Hospital has changed and developed me as a person. Children don't scare me anymore. I can change a nappy, feed, dress, wash, handle, play, sing, dance what ever and with any child what ever their condition or illness.
I received good references and good luck cards from the hospital. Some of the Ladies are going to visit when in the UK. Lots of photo's were taken and i will miss walking up and down the wards but i know its a place I'm always welcome.

Cooked a meal for Zaneen and her children as a thank you. I have spent a lot of time with them and they have been like my SA family. Zaneen and I sing of the same song sheet and she it amazing. Her and her husband Zita are panel beaters and can just about fix anything to look new. These are people I would fly back and see just for a few hours and again friends for life. Picture of them as well.

So today is my last day and got to give my car back etc. But the sun it shining so i may hit the beach for the last time. Organizing a meal with the friends i have left in CT. I am sad to leave but i want to see the REAL South Africa and I'm ready for that now. Plus i love this City and the people so ill be back with out a doubt and maybe before i come home, who knows?

Don't know when ill next get to write as on a 22day Tour but keep checking and emailing. Hope you are all well and thinking of you.

Karen x

Friends coming and going, but i'm still here!

2007-08-05T00:57:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, how's is, it?

Many things have happened and changed but it will take about 9.5 cafe lattes to explain it all, so ill just write an over view.

The sun is out and bright so i need to go surfing today i think.

One of my other good friends Nina has gone home as well as Erin this morning so ill get new people in my house, which is always fun.

Amanda who is in the photo at the Beach with the Guy with the white top (Rory - from London)
is one of the first people met here and she text me to say she was back so we had a really cool day together. The photo taken at table view as want ed to show it Rory before he left for home. He is only 17 but so funny got the dry whit, bit like Matt Maltby for those of you who know him. I looked after him and we had so many laughs. As you can see the other photo was a night out with Erin (from USA), Rory and i. Man, we danced the night away.

Also a picture of the 3 Katrin's all from Germany! One who has been my pal since arrival, one who i shared a room with and she move out. As she is hear till Feb so needed cheaper accom. But the photo taken at her place as we visit all the time, with wine of course!

Watched to sun set last night on Signal hill, the view are amazing. Picture of me and 2 Katrin's as we watched it together. Then i went off to a South African Bari (BBQ) with Amanda to meet her friends and the people i have heard about. I met someone there from Sale, and she knows someone i used to swim with..............small world!

Went to Hout Bay with is a place where you can get Fish and chip's. You know when you get that need to eat something like that!! Took Naomi, Rory and met Megan & James. They are a cool couple and Megan originally from Jo'burg but at uni with James in Newcastle. Hes a mature (UNI) Med student. Defo hang out with them this week, don't worry ill get you a photo soon.
The freaky girls with the pink hair, were raising money for charity and could speak simultaneously and could speak about 14 languages. They real freaked us out and seemed telepathic. I have never seen anything quite as strange. Also to add to the experience a man ran past behind them just in short, shadow boxing. The went on the beach just behind and stared meditating!!! We thought this was a good time to leave!! To weird and freaky!

The hospital is going really well and i wrote my report. It is a personal account of what has changed me at the hospital and mainly more in depth about the baby who i sat with. It is powerful and if anyone wants to read it ill email it to you. Be warned it main many people cry at the hospital. It is going to be used at an award ceremony as a volunteers view, so I'm proud of myself for that. Especially when English at school was my worst subject but if I'm writing something real and from my soul i can do it well. Maybe i should find my old teacher and tell her to read it, she may change my marks!!!?? he he he

Also my comments are on the Travellers Worldwide website, i think my fame is spreading!!

Watch out world..................kazstylie is coming at ya

Much to do about nothing!!

2007-07-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

Wow, well the fun and games continue in the 'hectic' place of Cape Town!

Claire and Liz have now gone so a different social group has developed, not that i'm short of a friend or 25 in this place. One of the final picture of Claire and i on her "2nd" last night................long story so ill leave that for the road. (one with the pink scarf round us) We went out on Edward st, where most the SA people hang out not the tourists. Wow we had a great night and ended up on the beach at 3am, having a laugh.
The picture with Alex and i sticking out tongues out is from Claire '1st' leaving party, but the picture makes me laugh and i get on really well with Alex. She lives in NYC and volunteering at the Red Cross hospital, where we look forward to tea break to exchange our gossip.

The picture of Nina, Katrin (German girls, i now share a room with) and i dancing in a line was taken when we were having a silly moment, dancing to Queen, 'Crazy little thing called love' was so funny and reminded me of you Mum!

The two guy's on the picture are both called Craig, both paramedics, both really funny and we all exchange stories and stuff from the services. We represent USA, SA and UK so its quite interesting to see we all have in same dark humor and compare totally private health care USA, bit of both SA and the NHS of the UK.

I went out with the ambulance service here and i tell you what these guy's see in 2 days we see in a year at home. The first thing is the calls are all filtered really well so they only go out to real stuff, which is also matched to your skill level. Hence you use all you skills in a shift not just once per month. Trauma is high and the name of the game. Your very lucky if you can afford private health care as its in a different world to the state hospitals, but all the health care staff know there stuff, want to learn and are friendly, non of this 'oh i'm a doctor i don't talk to you LOWER staff!' if people can help they will and if they don't know they ask!
The first job i went out on was a body hit by a car on the motorway and the rest was trauma but an improvement on that as they were all alive! Picture at the top of the Ambulance Netcare (private service) at Blougburg where i went out with the crew, Mark and Craig. Had a good day and saw a lot, also did a bit of networking darling and could fix up a job, no problem!

Also the Red Cross hospital is going amazing, i feel so happy there, being emotional involved as well as the helping out in as many ways as possible.
We have meetings once a week on different topics and this week we talked about HIV/AIDS. Living with it, treatment and how people do not have the information and education available to understand how you can contract it or to prevent it. People seem to think if you have HIV/AIDS your going to die and this is not true. Also in SA if you tell your family you have it you are deserted and kicked out of all your social network. It is also the fact that the men can go off with any woman they like, whenever they like. If a woman does not let the man get his way they will be left with no food, shelter, family and often beaten. Its hard to explain with words on a page, to really feel the pain of this country you have to be here and see the corruption, politics, township living, lack of information and education.
In the talk a lady was there who told her story, out of respect for her im not going to post it, but lets just say it was 'life changing' and when she got up to leave i stood up and hugged her, breaking down in tears!
Powerful.

Anyhow, how are you all in the wet weather of the uk?
Well if it make you feel any better it been quite cold here too.

Oh yeh and i hired a car for my last two week here as the things i want to see now are further out of town. Been lucky so far my friends have had cars up to now. So hopefully see a bit of the garden route and plan a road trip or two.

Finally i made friend with a South African family, thought one of the paramedic so been sampling normal life here, it cool.

Better go but keep looking and contacting me as it's always good to hear from home.

Chow

So busy and i love this city!

2007-07-22T10:54:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well i finally get time to write a little.

Hope everyone is well and i'm also on FACEBOOK so check out all my photo's on there too!!

Since Robbin Island time has flown and i have started to learn Africans and Xhosa with a lot of help.

Been to a football match 90mins for Nelson Mandela's birthday, it was Africa v the rest of the world. It was amazing and a great atmosphere! Painted my face as per the photo and Karen stylie!! Also you are not imagining it it is Pele' in the photo. I was so near the tunnel it was untrue.

Also been out with the Ambulance service call NetCare and they really know their stuff and are briain washed into thinking about money and insurance. They deal with lots of real jobs everyday and tell the rubbish to get lost!! Going to do a bit of a report on it all so ill let you know when i have done that.

Photo of Katrin and Me on Llandundno beach in the sun on a Monday afternoon. Such a hard life i have at the moment. Im so chilled out that its unreal, the people are great and helpful. Granted you have to be careful and think about safety but i can cope with that.

Also the view form Blouburg beach, where they take all the postcard picture from, it amazing and we were there today and saw a Whale!!

The other photo is of Rhodes Monument which is about the UCT and on the lower part of table mountain. I can see it from the windows of the Hospital everyday.

Sorry it's brief but im of out AGAIN.........................................................

July - Robbin Island

2007-07-12T11:46:00.000-07:00

Following on from 'July oh July'.................

Robbin is a very interesting place due to the history of Africa and it development of what it is now.

We saw the place were they mind stone and Nelson Mandela was force to work with the other prisoners. We had a tour guide who was an ex prisoner so it was really interesting to hear his story of what life was like and how they take their names and identity, giving them numbers. De humanizing them as much as possible. Singing was one thing thet kept their spirits alive. Didn't get to see Nelson Mandela's cell as it was closed for referb!!??
The ferry takes about 45 mins and is really nice seeing the back drop of Cape town.
Carn't really tell you too much more about it as you have to go and see for yourself really.

General

Been out and about to different bars, meeting up with the Americans. Liz also returned so it was great to see her and let the good time roll. Most the people i have made friends with leave soon, so it will be all change again.

Im on Face book now people so all photo's on there, but not labled then all up yet.

July oh July!

2007-07-12T10:55:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone and thank you for all your messages and texts, its always great to read them and make home seem not so far away.

Ok, lets crack on........................

2nd July- 12th July,
Hospital report: been on Oncology ward at Red Cross Hospital for a while now and its nice to get to know the children but it also makes it harder in some ways. However i have now moved onto Palletive care which is more involved with babies, changing nappies, comforting, ensuring discharge bags are given out, monitoring babies alertness and giving special attention to babies who have no visitors or who are dyeing. Its though for me as you know i'm not too experienced in this area but hey, i'm doing it! Had a hard day today emotionally as a very badly facially deformed baby took a turn for the worse and i was asked if i didn't mind sitting and comforting the baby, until the parents arrived. The baby had cleff palate, an exposed eye totally on the left side (basically no skin covering the structure of the face) trachi, along with drips, pump drives and loads of equipment. The baby's breathing was slowing down and we didn't think he would stay alive until the parents arrived as it would take them about 3 hour to get from their home. They had not seen the baby in 2 weeks and when they left he was doing ok. They have to leave as they can not afford to stay and they will lose everything if they don't work or leave others at risk if they are not at home. Sad reality of being here. Due to the decreasing condition of the baby the Rev proceeded to Baptize to ensure it was done before it was too late. This was very had to witness and even though im not really religious you just hope it may comfort the baby or the family. Felt a bit numb after that. Then just to top the day off we had a meeting about social care and sexual assault on children!

Ok moving on.................................
As above on the 4th July Claire and i when down to Muzenburg for a surf lesson, it was such fun and we laughed all the time. I stood up and i have been down for 3 more lesson since as got a deal, not to be missed. The same day we were invited to a 4th July party by some American Med students, Claire had met at the hospital and i have meet one night before. They are all really nice and we took the mic out of them all the time for 'high 5's' and anything American do that we think is rubbish. Naturally we took union jack flags just to stamp our mark on the day of independance! It was a great party and the house was like out of the films, every room as a Jacuzzi bath, swimming pool etc, hence i had a bath and we have been back since. (we are not allowed baths at the lodge as it uses too much water) so it was great! Picture of Jason, Craig, Claire, Me, Andrass plus others who i carn't remember their names. There was about 50 people there!

8th July

Went on the tour of the Townships and Robbin Island, which was where Nelson Mandela was for a lot of his sentencing. Both were eye opening and seeing real places people live in some of the worse conditions you can imagine is hard, but you can understand why they take drug and drink. On the tour we went into a local pub, which is usually men only as the women seem to do everything while the men sit about getting drunk. Women look after the children, work, cook, dig, or do everything needed to maintain some living. There is a picture of the pub, but you drink the 5 day fermented beer out of an old dulux paint can and pass it around! The smell was horrible, this was mainly due to the fact that they cook sheep heads and eat them near by. There are some photo's of this. We then saw different type of housing and spoke to some of the children, who like to pose for photo's. Moving on next to a Church service in one of the town ships. It was really up lifting as it was a Gospal church, so lot of singing, clapping, dancing and welcoming us in to the service. I could have stayed there for the hole thing but we had to go to the Waterfront to catch the ferry to robin island.

Photo's cont.....

2007-07-05T04:45:00.001-07:00

more photo relating to posting 5th July.

Morning Glory!

2007-07-05T03:56:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone hope you all ok? Sorry not up dated in a while as the computer here has been off line so been a bit difficult.

So been at the Hospital every morning and some afternoons. Last week we did face painting with the children and Naomi dress up as a massive Lady bird outfit! It was fun and we all noticed that the children go so much out of it, than the normal games. There are some photo's of this too. One photo of me and Ursula, who is in charge of the toy cupboard and volunteers. She's brilliant and one of those people who is always in a hurry.

Wed 27th went up table mountain and it was an amazing clear day, we seem to be having a run on those at the moment.
Up on top of the mountain is amazing and lots of paths and wildlife also. Claire and i went up in the cable car, as it takes you up or down in a graceful motion it also rotates inside the cable car so everyone get a good view. Lots of good photos from the top, not to mention after walking round for about 40mins, then had a massive nose bleed. Brilliant just what i needed, but something ill never for get, and Claire has a photo.

Been out for a few meals for people leaving, which seems to be every week almost!
Went to the Turkish baths on long street on Sat 29th(like Deans gate of Cape Town) had a swim and steam room, which felt so good as it was cold that day and raining.
Unfortunately Nell one of the girls from my lodge was mugged walking about 50m out side on her own. I was chatting to Nelly(the lodge owner) and we heard screaming and ran outside, not to mention the dogs were going crackers. But it was night time and she had a handbag on show, which are all the wrong things to do let alone be alone. You never go anywhere on your own at night and you keep your money in a money belt under your cloths, also making sure that you don't take anything valuable out with you, its just the way of life here.

Anyway on the Sunday 1st July Manuel drove down to Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point. We saw the Penguins near Simon's town (seen one you've seen them all!) and saw a Cycle race pass through while we stopped so that was cool. We drove all the way down the east coast to the point and back up the west stopping in Camps Bay at the end of the day for dinner. Put a few pictures of this too and the beautiful sunset which you see everyday at the beach.

Monday 2nd Hospital in the morning i seem to be on Oncology Ward quite a lot and getting to know the Children better and build up relationships, which is nice. I made a little boy smile and laugh, who never has any visitor and is usually crying on his own. I was very chuffed by that.
The afternoon Claire and i went to the little markets in the city center and got some hand mad necklace and earrings. I save some money as i bartered as they alway say, 'i do good price for you , lady' ..........i think Oh yeh, how good?
We then got invited out to a movie night with some of the American medical students. Their house is AMAZING, its like out of the films. Highly polished floors, all rooms double and en suits with Jacuzzi baths. think your getting the picture.

Well im done for now but next time going to write about surfing and the 4th July party with the Americans.

Up date and settling down.

2007-06-26T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hi guys,

well since my last posting i have done lots of things and partied more than Prince Harry, so you know what i mean. Pictures of Red cross hospital which ill tell you more about in a short while. Check out the mountains in the back ground as this is Cape Town you see the mountain every place you look. Went to Camps bay which i think i mentioned in the previous post thats the photo of me on the beach there, it was beautiful and a up market area, a must if you visit. Picture also of Me, Liz, Nel, Senne, Mechella, Claire and Manwel ready to hit the local town of Ob's , (it only has about 6 bars anyway, but its fun and all you need). Visited the waterfront and watched the rugby on the big screen, Springbogs Vs All Blacks, good game, food and great people. Picture with the boats and table mountain in the back ground is the water front, it remind you of home when you go there so its good.

Right lets get to the REAL bit..............

Few photo's of the Red Cross Memorial hospital where i'm working. It was set up after the second world war. It treats 200,000 outpatients a year and 20,000 inpatients. It is the only pediatric hospital sub Shara so lot of children come here for specialist treatment. It is amazing, friendly and everyone feel a part of what is going on and aware of the impact you have on these children and their future. Some of the children have never had someone to play with and have never had toys, let alone attention. We have had a few meetings with the Managers and directors of the 'Friends of the children association' (who i am involved with) it so passionate and the reality of African culture is high lighted. We as educated people take so much for granted and are unaware of how many skills we have in our basic up bringing. There is one guy who is from Cape Town who come in dressed as a clown and performs tricks for the children. Like Patch Adams, he is so brilliant and takes the children's imagination to another level away from the walls of the hospital and the medical world around them. I would luv to be like that. It is off the back of this that we are thinking of dressing up on Friday for the children and teaching them about wild life. It should be fun. I am also going to talk to The association about what we could do to help push the progrmame forward into the future. I wanted to share this with you as this is the real reason i am here as well as traveling and a feel of my emotion.

Anyhow, i am going out for a meal tonight as one of the people in my lodges last night. Ill get some party photo i think.

Weather raining if that makes you feel any better.

Be safe keep blogging

Karen XXXX

Busy bee!

2007-06-21T23:18:00.000-07:00

Hi, well done at lot since my last posting but ill try and spread it all out a bit. ] Set off on a road trip last weekend to Stellenbosh, the main wine area. It beautiful and we had brunch in the mountains and then drove between places all day. Stayed in backpacker hostal over night and then breakfast at another place called Spere. Had an amazing drive back, calling at a nature resurve on the way back. When ever you travel out of the city or on the main motorway you see the townships, they think that the population in Cape towns townships alone is over 1 million! Picture of Claire, Liz, Manwel and me on wine tour. Picture also of the two girls i share a room with called Senna and Michela.

Photo's of the Lodge

2007-06-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

A few photos of where i'm staying.

Will upload some of the Stellenbosh wine area soon, it's beautiful. We (4 of us) went on a road trip as Claire has a car and stayed the night in a hostal. Big Uni town but all the students were away so bit empty. Really nice weather bit cool at night and breezy in the day. Planning lots to make sure i get it all in. Hope your all ok and please make comments as it good the hear from home every now and again. Add more soon next week as working all this week and getting to grips with the city/logistics.

Arrivel in Cape Town SA

2007-06-15T05:35:00.000-07:00

Hi there everyone,

I arrived save and slept well on the plane. I'm staying in a Lodge in just outside the center. 9 people all together in our little place, 5 English Girls, 2 Dutch girls(who i am in a room with), 1 Swiss Doctor Lady and 1 man from Lichenstine (i know that spelling must be wrong but there is only 35ooo who live there anyway) We all went out on the first night to a pol bar and had a laugh. Think i am the instigator so planning a trip to the wine area this weekend and staying over so ill let you know how that goes too. A girl called Claire is a medical student and i get on well with her and she has a car so wine road trip, i think!!
Also my first day in the hospital, which went well. Caught a mini cab there,which is the local transport, load and colourful on the inside but just like a white van on the inside. (cost 60p for a 15min trip) Met other volunteers from the US, SA and UK and plated with the toy etc. Think ill give it a mouth and then maybe ask to shadow some of the doctors, which seems to be possible.
Anyhow some photos of where im staying, bed, kitchen etc.if not on today i will try again over the weekend at its taking a long time to upload

Off I Go!

2007-06-12T04:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for coming to my BBQ and making it a happy special day for me, hope you enjoyed it? picture to the left.

Think it's starting to hit me now (the day before i leave) mixed emotions but more excitement than anything. 4 years of saving and planning has gone into this so im more than ready, bring it on!

Remenber 'You have one life, LIVE it or die trying'

Right this is really it.................................................................................................................................

Work night out before leaving, May 07

2007-05-24T08:03:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photo's from the night out, bit of a mess!!

Thank you to all who came out and hope you all had a good time.

Getting ready for the big trip

2007-04-28T04:20:00.000-07:00

Dave xxx Mum and Dad

Had the jabs, sorted visa, flights booked, insurance taken out, money saved, out of date in now in date, all checks done for projects, passport checked, sun blok, hat and bikni!! Think thats it!!

OK just got to pack over next few weeks.

The general plan for the trip is: South Africa - Cape Town, volunteering in a Red Cross childrens hospital, to Malawi - Monkey Bay voulnteering in feild clinics and hospital, to Perth - to see the west side, train throught the out back Indian pacific railway, to Sydney - stay with Family and friends, to New Zealand - Christchurch over land to Auckland, Chilli - Santiago, to Argentina - Buenos Aires and finally back home.

Picture of Mum, Dad and Dave posted here and will miss them all.

Seat belt on?

Lets go ...............................